Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, we are no longer accepting tax returns for 2019. If you have already filed your taxes at United Way and have questions, please contact Carman Toler- 765-457-HELP (4357) extension 305. Click here to file your taxes free online.
If you are in need of assistance or have questions, please call us 765-457-4357 or text ACCESS to 85511
Kindergarten Readiness Grant
This grant is open to both non-profit and for-profit organizations. The only requirement is that the program must work to directly benefit children birth to five years of age. A financial report is required to be considered for funding.
Adult Recess
If play is considered productive for kids, why would it stop being constructive for adults? New research from the National Institute for Play suggests that plays helps sculpts our brains…that sound pretty constructive!
Most complex problems adults face require creative solutions. Play has a direct role in creativity and finding what works to solve these problems. Not only can play jump start our creative problem-solving techniques, it can shake us out of habits that hold us back. So it may sound silly to urge your co-workers and staff to go out and play but the results speak for themselves. Let us bring Adult Recess to your next staff outing or event.
K-Camp
K-Camp is a free summer camp for students with little or no preschool experience. This program is designed to prepare children for their new roles as kindergarten students.
Real Men Read
Real Men Read is a reading program that aspires to mobilize volunteers in the community as readers in early learning centers across Howard County to increase Kindergarten readiness.
Food Pantry Network
In response to increased need and lack of resources, United Way facilitates the Food Pantry Network. Each month pantries meet, visit each other’s facilities and share ideas to stretch resources. Through this network, most local pantries participate in a database sharing program.
School S.U.P.P.L.I.E.S
In August, a coalition of labor unions partner with United Way to provide over 1,000 children with needed supplies to begin school. For one week, volunteers screen families and distribute backpacks, Kleenex, pencils, paper and other items collected or provided by unions and other community groups. Clothing and shoes are also collected and distributed.
Meet Up, Eat Up, Read Up
We kick in when school lets out. At no cost, this collaboration supplies a midday meal to kids under 18 – then we add fun! Every day brings something different; crafts, games, theater, sports. We learned about fire trucks & safety, healthy eating habits, checked out library books, and made new friends. This year, the number of kids eating healthy meals doubled.
Born Learning Trails
Children are learning all the time and turning everyday activities into learning moments so let’s make it fun! Born Learning Trails turn those everyday moments into learning experiences. Research has shown that interacting regularly with young children helps them be better prepared to start school. Here in Howard County, we have two Born Learning Trails! Visit them at Pettit Park School on the north side of the building and in Studebaker Park on the south side of the park.